To the editor:
When I was first able to vote, I went to the polls because I could. I made choices with very little thought and with a lot of peer direction.
I was indifferent.
My interest dwindled as I began to deal with real life (marriage, two kids and a mortgage on a single income). It was difficult to be positive about municipal, provincial or federal elections. I didn't stop voting completely but I certainly stopped caring.
I was apathetic.
Reflecting on the reasons for this never helped me find a positive outcome. I know my parents and grandparents knew their right to vote was important, but at the time, I felt like my voice had no impact. Several years in review of this and watching the growth and curiosity of my kids caused me to reconsider.
I grew interested.
As I became more engaged over the years, I gained experience and a desire to ask questions.
I became active.
With a passion to show my kids an ability to act and an interest to effect positive results for my friends and city, I considered how to become more involved. Since then I have been told to “get a life” by one of our councillors when making an honest and polite enquiry. I also infer from a recent comment that I only “appear to look professional."
I have become positively provoked.
You were not elected to demean citizens’ ideas, clothing, age or experience. You should be listening attentively, discussing issues and making good decisions for this city. There are many ways to enable younger people to become active in our community. They can get there through encouragement or by being incited. I hope my children develop interest earlier than I did. I want them to feel more engaged and optimistic about the city they live in.
I ask for courtesy, my children are watching.
Andrew Brigham
Candidate, councillor-at-large
